Teachers grapple with debt and financial stress, KNUT report reveals

A comprehensive teachers’ wellness report by the Kenya National Union of Teachers has revealed deep financial and mental health challenges affecting educators across the country. The report indicates that 97 percent of teachers are in debt, with many facing persistent financial strain and struggling to save. According to the findings, 88 percent of teachers are struggling to repay loans, while 60 percent say they are overworked. The report also raises concern over teachers’ well-being, with 12 percent reporting thoughts of self-harm linked to work pressure and the rising cost of living. Julius Migos Ogamba acknowledged the challenges and said the government is working to improve teachers’ welfare.